Title: Branko Ivanovic Declines Persepolis Offer, Citing Personal and Family Reasons
Introduction
In a significant development within Iranian football, Branko Ivanovic, the former and highly successful Croatian manager of Persepolis FC, has officially turned down an offer to return to the helm of the Tehran-based club. Despite positive and respectful negotiations where the club reportedly accepted all his conditions, the 71-year-old coach has decided to step away from professional coaching for personal reasons.
A Respectful Rejection
The negotiations between Persepolis and Ivanovic were conducted in a positive atmosphere. Ali Inanloo, a member of the Persepolis board tasked with leading the talks, engaged in what was described as a very respectful dialogue with the esteemed coach. Reza Chelengar, who served as Ivanovic’s translator during his previous tenure and was present at the discussions, confirmed the amicable nature of the talks.
Chelengar noted that Ivanovic expressed great respect for Inanloo’s approach, even stating that had the same offer been presented a year earlier, the outcome might have been different.
Prioritizing Family and Health
The core reasons for Ivanovic’s decision are deeply personal. The veteran coach explained that after years of working abroad, he can no longer bear being separated from his family. He expressed a desire to “turn a new page in his life” and dedicate more time to his loved ones.
Furthermore, Ivanovic cited considerations about his age and physical condition. Nearing 72 and dealing with issues such as knee pain, he conveyed that he no longer possesses the same energy levels required for the demanding role at a major club like Persepolis. His family, he added, is also opposed to him taking a job that would keep him away from home at this stage of his life.
A Final Decision on Coaching
This decision appears to be a definitive step back from the sidelines for Ivanovic. He explicitly informed the Persepolis management that he currently has no intention of coaching any team, including national squads. This marks a clear shift from his position just a few weeks prior, where he was reportedly open to considering a national team offer. His refusal of the Persepolis role signals a firm commitment to his retirement from coaching.